Specialized Globe Mity Folding Bike

[Sergeant Rock]

I was in my LBS the other day and spotted a Specialized Globe Mity folding bike for sale second-hand. I am looking for a bike for my partner, who is runner and doesn’t understand the point of bikes but would like to be able to join me and the kids on short trips. I thought a folder would be a good choice because my car rack will take three bikes max, mine and two for the kids, and so a folder would slip in the boot of the car easily. Also as she is new to riding she could pop the bike in the boot and find somewhere quite to get her confidence up. OK that’s the official line but a folder would also be useful for me as I travel with work periodically and I could easily take the folder with me to avoid the withdrawal symptoms of not being able to ride.

Back to the bike. As I said the bike is second hand but on a quick once over it look in very good condition and apparently, the bike belongs to the owner, has spent most of its life in the garage. He is after £250. I looked on the web and found out the Globe Mity was discontinued circa 2005. Originally they were on sale for £650ish with end of line deals at £400ish.

The bike has 20” wheels, Shimano 105 gearing and other parts based around Specialized own branding I think. I actually think it is a Dahon frame rebadged but not sure about this.

Anyway bottom line – is this bike any good as a second hand buy, anyone got one / had one and any guidance on what I is a reasonable price for this standard and age of bike. Any advice would be gratefully received.

 

[TheBoyBilly]

Personally if I were satisfied that the owner of the LBS was indeed the owner of the bike, that it was in good condition (as in almost 'as new') and that it fitted in the car boot with all of your other daytrip stuff, then I would go for it. Specialized Globe are a very good brand. I have a 20"-wheeled Trek F400 which I would imagine folds to much the same size as the Mity. I have had no problems with mine and I can't see any inherent fault with the specs on the Mity. A 105 derailleur and Deore shifters will almost certainly be reliable and maintainance should be a breeze, the folding mechanism should be very strong and it comes with rack and 'guards. I find my SRAM-equipped Trek gives a very good ride and your other 'alf should have no problems keeping up on a leisurely ride. I can see you pinching it for the occasional trip to the shops/pub too. Once home, stick it under the stairs and it will always be there when you need it. (be cheeky and try to get the price down to £200 though )

Bill